Rajeev Chandrasekhar writes to Satheesan to resolve PSC aspirants' stir

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State president Rajeev Chandrasekhar, MLA, on Sunday wrote to Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan, urging the government to call the protesting Public Service Commission (PSC) aspirants for talks and resolve their ongoing strike. The candidates, who are included in the rank list and waiting for appointment, have been protesting for the past 38 days.

In his letter, Chandrasekhar said the situation in which the youth who have worked hard and found a place in the rank list having to struggle for their rights on the streets is a disgrace for Kerala. He stressed that it is the responsibility of a democratic government to listen to the legitimate demands of the candidates and hold discussions with them.

Expressing concern over the credibility and transparency of a constitutional institution like the PSC, Chandrasekhar said the complaints of the candidates should be seriously considered. Instead of suppressing the protesting youth, the government should be ready to listen to and resolve their problems, he added.

The PSC aspirants have been demanding appointment to the posts for which they have been selected, citing delays in the issuance of rank lists and appointments. The strike, which entered its 38th day, has seen participation from candidates across various districts, many of whom have been waiting for years after clearing the selection process.

The protest has drawn attention to the challenges faced by job seekers in the state, as well as to the functioning of recruitment agencies. The candidates have also raised concerns about potential irregularities in the selection process, though no specific allegations have been proven.

Chandrasekhar's letter to Satheesan is seen as an attempt to build political consensus on the issue, even as the ruling Left Democratic Front and the opposition United Democratic Front have staked positions on the matter. Satheesan, who leads the Congress-led opposition in the state assembly, has earlier expressed support for the aspirants but has not yet responded publicly to Chandrasekhar's communication.

The development comes amid growing pressure on the Kerala government to resolve the impasse. Several political leaders, including those from the BJP, have visited the protest site to express solidarity. The government has maintained that it is examining the legal and procedural aspects of the demands.

Observers note that the prolonged agitation highlights the need for reforms in the recruitment process to ensure timely appointments and transparency. The PSC, which conducts examinations for various state government posts, has a large backlog of vacancies that has compounded the problem.

Chandrasekhar's letter also urged Satheesan to use his position to facilitate a dialogue between the government and the aspirants. He reiterated that the youth are not seeking any undue favours but merely want what is rightfully theirs after having qualified through a competitive process.

As the protest continues, the onus remains on the government to respond positively to the demands. The call for a resolution has come from across the political spectrum, with Chandrasekhar's letter adding to the chorus urging a swift settlement.